List of Dubai Visa FAQs that you should be aware of before applying for UAE Visa –
Frequently Asked Questions categories
- General Dubai Visa
- Eligibility & Requirements
- Dubai Visa Application Process
- Entry & Exit Rules for visa
- Visa Status check
- Refunds, Rejections & Reconsideration
- Overstay and Visa Extension
- Minor Visa application
- Express or Urgent visa
General Dubai Visa faqs
Can I apply for a Dubai visa without confirming my travel bookings?
Yes, you can submit your visa application even before finalizing your flight or hotel. Platforms like Apply Dubai Visa let you start the process without uploading tickets, though supporting documents may be required before approval in some cases.
If I’m stopping over in Dubai, do I still need a visa?
That depends on your layover duration and whether you plan to leave the airport. If your stopover exceeds 8 hours and you’d like to explore the city, a Dubai transit visa is necessary. For shorter stays within the airport premises, many nationalities can transit without a visa.
Is there a difference between a tourist and a visit visa for Dubai?
While both allow short stays, a tourist visa is commonly used for vacations, whereas a visit visa may apply to those seeing family or on long personal visits.
Is a UAE-based sponsor required to get a Dubai tourist visa?
Not necessarily. Tourist visas — such as the 14 days Dubai visa — can be arranged through licensed agencies without needing a local sponsor. This is ideal for solo or first-time travelers without UAE contacts.
Do cruise ship passengers need a UAE visa?
Yes. Even cruise passengers arriving at UAE ports must hold a valid visa, such as a 96-hour Dubai transit visa. Some cruise companies offer assistance with this, but it’s best to confirm your visa status before sailing.
Does every child need a separate visa for Dubai?
Yes, visa is based on passport so each passport should hold separate visa, even if its child. A Dubai visa for children must be applied for separately, even if the child is included on the parent’s passport.
Can someone with a travel document instead of a national passport apply?
Having a valid passport with three months validity is basic requirement. Travel documents may not always be accepted for Dubai tourist visas unless officially recognized by the UAE. It’s best to verify document acceptance on the ICP website.
Eligibility & Requirements
How long should my passport be valid to apply for a Dubai visa?
To qualify for any Dubai visa — including a 30 days Dubai visa — your passport must be valid for at least six months from your planned entry date into the UAE.
Can someone apply using a temporary passport or travel Document?
Temporary documents are typically not accepted for UAE visa applications. Most agencies, including Apply Dubai Visa, require a standard passport with sufficient validity. Always confirm eligibility if you’re traveling under special circumstances.
Is there a medical test needed for a tourist visa to Dubai?
No medical checkups are needed when applying for short-term visas like a 14 days Dubai visa. Health screenings are only necessary for long-stay visas such as work permits or residency visas.
I don’t have a job. Can I still apply for a Dubai tourist visa?
Yes. Being unemployed doesn’t automatically disqualify you. However, some applicants may be asked to provide additional proof of financial stability, depending on their nationality and visa type.
Is travel insurance necessary to get a UAE tourist visa?
While not always a mandatory requirement, travel insurance is strongly recommended. It may be required for some visa types processed through Apply Dubai Visa, especially if you’re applying during high-risk travel periods.
Will I need to pay a security deposit when applying?
For most nationalities, no deposit is needed. But in select cases — especially if the applicant is flagged under immigration watchlists — a refundable guarantee might be asked for, based on GDRFA guidelines.
Can holders of refugee travel documents apply for a Dubai visa?
It depends. While some refugee travel documents are recognized, many are not eligible for tourist visas unless approved by UAE immigration.
Dubai Visa Application Process
How early should I apply for a Dubai visa before my travel date?
It’s advisable to apply at least 7 to 10 days before your intended departure. Though some visas, like the 7 days Dubai visa, are issued faster, applying early helps avoid delays due to documentation or public holidays.
Can I apply for a Dubai visa online without visiting a physical office?
Yes. Platforms like Apply Dubai Visa offer 100% online processing. You can send your documents by whats app, make payment, and receive your visa by email — no physical appointments required.
What documents are needed for a Dubai visa application?
You typically need:
- A clear photo of your passport’s main page
- A passport-size photograph (white background preferred)
Additional paperwork may be requested depending on visa type — e.g., 90 days Dubai visa may need proof of income or relationship if visiting family.
How do I submit my documents for a UAE visa?
Documents can be uploaded digitally when applying through Apply Dubai Visa. Ensure your files are clear and in JPEG or PDF format. Blurry or cropped documents may delay your visa.
Can I apply for multiple Dubai visas at the same time?
No. You cannot hold two valid UAE visas simultaneously. If you already have an active visa (even unused), you must cancel it before applying for a new one like a single entry short term visa.
How long does it take to receive a Dubai visa after applying?
Processing usually takes 24 to 72 working hours. However, express service options are available for urgent applications through providers like Apply Dubai Visa, often delivering within 12–24 hours.
Is biometric data or in-person verification required?
Not for tourist or visit visas. All required steps — including document submission and payment — can be done online. Biometric collection applies only to residency visas, not for short-term Dubai tourist visas.
Can someone else apply for a Dubai visa on my behalf?
Yes. A family member or friend can apply on your behalf as long as they provide the correct documents. Visa agencies like Apply Dubai Visa also allow third-party applications with consent.
Entry & Exit Rules for visa
Is it necessary to enter Dubai on the exact date printed on my visa?
Not at all. Dubai visas allow you to enter the UAE on any date within the visa’s validity period. For instance, if you have a 14 days Dubai visa, your stay duration will start from your arrival, not the approval date.
Can I land in Abu Dhabi or Sharjah with a Dubai visa?
Yes, Dubai visas are valid for entry at any airport in the UAE. You can arrive in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah even if your visa was issued for Dubai — including short-term options like the 7 days Dubai visa.
What are the consequences of overstaying a UAE tourist visa?
Overstaying leads to daily fines starting from AED 50, which increase the longer you remain. Additional consequences can include immigration holds, future visa rejections, or a travel ban. It’s best to extend or exit before expiry — especially for 30 days Dubai visas or shorter.
Do I need to exit the UAE from the same airport I arrived at?
No. UAE immigration allows departures from any exit point. So even if you landed in Dubai, you can leave from Abu Dhabi or another emirate, regardless of your Dubai tourist visa type.
Does a single-entry Dubai visa allow multiple trips in and out?
No. Once you exit on a single-entry visa, it becomes invalid. If you intend to leave and re-enter, choose a multiple-entry Dubai visa instead.
Can I get a refund if I cancel my Dubai trip after the visa is issued?
Unfortunately, all Dubai visa fees are non-refundable once approved. This applies even if the visa is unused. However, you can request cancellation via Apply Dubai Visa to avoid future application issues.
Is it possible to enter Dubai on the last valid day of my visa?
Yes, but keep in mind your stay will still be limited to the visa’s permitted duration. For example, if you hold a 30 days UAE visa and enter on the last validity day, your 30-day stay starts from that date.
Visa Status check
How can I find out if my Dubai visa has been approved?
If you’ve submitted your application through Apply Dubai Visa, just log into your dashboard to see real-time updates. The platform will indicate whether your visa—such as a 14 days Dubai visa—is under review, approved, or issued.
Is there a way to check UAE visa progress with only a passport number?
Yes, you can visit the ICP Smart Services or GDRFA Dubai portals to check status using just your passport details and nationality. This is most useful for visas applied via official government channels.
What tracking ID do I receive after submitting a visa application?
Applicants receive a unique application ID or reference number, which is essential for checking progress. If you’ve applied for something like a 30 days Dubai visa, this tracking number will be sent to your email upon submission.
How many working days does it take for status updates to reflect?
In most cases, it takes around 2 to 3 business days to see a change from ‘under process’ to ‘approved’. Some fast-track visa types like the 7 days Dubai visa may be processed even faster when all documentation is accurate.
Will I get a notification once the visa is issued?
Absolutely. You’ll be notified via email, WhatsApp, or SMS once your UAE e-visa is ready. This includes a downloadable PDF copy. Apply Dubai Visa always alerts users as soon as their application is approved.
Why is my Dubai visa status stuck on “processing”?
If your application hasn’t moved for more than 4 working days, there could be delays due to document mismatches, public holidays, or system backlog. Contact your provider immediately. Clients of Apply Dubai Visa can reach support via live chat or email for faster resolution.
Can I monitor the visa progress of my spouse or kids if we applied together?
Yes. If you submitted multiple applications together—say for a Dubai tourist visa for your family—you can track all of them using the same by sending whats app message to us.
Refunds, Rejections & Reconsideration
Will I get my money back if my Dubai visa is rejected?
Unfortunately, Dubai visa fees are non-refundable once submitted, even if the visa is refused. This applies to all types—whether it’s a 7 days Dubai visa or 30 days Dubai visa. Always double-check your documents before applying.
Can I reapply if my Dubai visa was rejected?
Yes, reapplication is allowed. However, it’s crucial to understand the reason behind the rejection—common ones include incomplete paperwork, prior overstays, or mismatched information. Apply Dubai Visa can assist you with reapplication after reviewing the cause of refusal.
How long should I wait before reapplying after a rejection?
You can reapply immediately after a visa is rejected, but it’s advisable to wait until the rejection reason is clarified. Updating documents or correcting previous errors improves the chance of approval the second time.
What happens if I apply again without fixing past issues?
Repeated applications without resolving earlier issues may lead to automatic rejections or even temporary blacklisting. Always make sure that issues like overstay fines, incorrect data, or missing documents are cleared before submitting a new 14 days Dubai visa application.
If I cancel my visa before it’s processed, will I get a refund?
No, once the payment is made, visa fees cannot be refunded—even if the visa is not yet approved or if you cancel due to a change in travel plans.
Can I challenge or appeal a visa rejection?
There is no formal appeal process for UAE tourist visa rejections. However, if the issue was due to an error or incorrect document, you can reapply after correcting it. Apply Dubai Visa can guide you through resubmission.
Does a visa rejection affect future applications?
Not necessarily. Many applicants successfully get approved on the second attempt after fixing the issues. However, frequent rejections may trigger additional scrutiny or processing delays in future visa applications.
How will I know why my UAE visa was rejected?
In most cases, the exact reason is not disclosed officially. However, if you apply via Apply Dubai Visa, their team will help assess common issues like prior overstays, employment conflicts, or document discrepancies.
Overstay and Visa Extension
Can I extend my UAE tourist visa without leaving the country?
Yes, most visitors holding a valid tourist visa—like a 30 days Dubai visa—can apply for an in-country Dubai visa extension without exiting the UAE. This extension is typically available for an additional 30 days, subject to immigration approval.
How much does it cost to renew a tourist visa inside the UAE?
The average charge for extending a visa is approximately AED 1,050. Apply Dubai Visa offers competitive pricing on extensions for various visa types, including the 14 days Dubai visa.
Can a 7-day visa be extended from within the UAE?
Although extensions for a 7 days Dubai visa are less common, it may still be possible based on your current travel record and the discretion of immigration authorities. Reach out to your service provider to verify eligibility.
What are the penalties if I stay beyond my visa validity?
Overstaying incurs fines starting at AED 50 per day, and this includes both the expiry date and the departure day. Unpaid fines can lead to immigration bans or issues during future entries, so it’s important to clear dues before exiting the country.
Can I exit the UAE and return with a new visa instead of extending?
Yes, many travelers do a border-to-border visa run—traveling to nearby countries like Oman and re-entering with a fresh Dubai tourist visa. This method is often used to reset visa duration.
Is it possible to change my tourist visa into a residence visa?
Yes. If you’re switching to a sponsored visa (e.g., employment, family, or investment), your tourist visa can be converted without exiting the country. A status change application is required, along with supporting documentation.
How can I track my remaining visa days to avoid overstaying?
You can check the validity of your visa through the GDRFA Dubai portal. Alternatively, if you applied via Apply Dubai Visa, they’ll notify you before your visa nears expiry.
Is a visa extension allowed for those who entered on a visa on arrival?
Yes, some nationalities—such as UK, EU, or US citizens—can extend their visa-on-arrival once for 30 additional days, depending on entry rules. You’ll need to apply before your original stay duration ends.
Minor Visa application
Is it necessary to get a visa for children visiting Dubai?
Yes, minors of all ages—including infants—must hold their own Dubai tourist visa. They cannot enter the UAE on a parent’s visa and must be applied for separately.
What details or documents are needed to apply for a child’s visa?
Here’s what you’ll usually need:
- A passport scan of the child (valid for at least six months)
- A recent photograph with a white background
- Birth certificate (in English or legally translated Arabic)
- Valid passport and UAE visa scans of parents
- Consent letter (NOC) from the non-traveling parent(s), if applicable
Applications can be submitted fully online via ApplyDubaiVisa.com with soft copies of all documents.
Is there any age-based exception for visa rules?
No. There are no exemptions based on age—even newborns must obtain their own 7 days Dubai visa or 30 days Dubai visa depending on the length of the stay.
Are there child-specific visa types available?
Not separately. Children must apply under the same visa durations available to adults—such as 14 days Dubai visa, 30 days Dubai visa, or 60 days Dubai visa.
How long does it take to get a visa for a child?
Processing generally takes 2 to 3 business days. If there are document mismatches or missing consents, it may take longer.
Can children apply for a visa while living abroad?
Yes. Whether you’re in Europe, South Asia, or elsewhere, you can apply online for your child’s Dubai visa from any location worldwide.
Is parental authorization needed when one parent is not traveling?
Definitely. UAE immigration requires a signed No Objection Certificate from the non-accompanying parent. If the child is traveling with relatives or friends, both parents’ signed and attested consent is mandatory.
Are visa costs lower for children?
Not typically. Fees for a child’s 14 days Dubai visa or 60 days Dubai visa are similar to those of adults. However, during some holiday seasons, free visa schemes may apply for children under 18.
Can I use my visa to bring my child with me?
No. Each traveler, including children and infants, must have a separate visa. Even if the child is listed in your passport, a valid UAE visa is still required.
Express and Urgent Dubai Visa
Is it possible to get a Dubai visa urgently?
Absolutely. If you’re facing a last-minute trip or unexpected travel, you can request a fast-track Dubai visa. With the urgent processing option, most travelers can receive their visa in as little as 4 to 6 hours. You can select this priority service while applying for a 30 days Dubai visa or 14 days Dubai visa at ApplyDubaiVisa.com.
How long does Dubai express visa processing take?
For express applications, the processing window is typically same day, and sometimes within a few working hours. It depends on when the application is submitted and the completeness of your documents. This is especially helpful when booking a short term dubai visa on short notice.
What is the extra cost for urgent visa processing?
Express service carries an additional fee over the standard visa price. The extra amount varies based on the type of visa selected, such as a 60 days Dubai visa or 14 days Dubai visa. The total cost, including the priority fee, is displayed during the online application at ApplyDubaiVisa.com.
Can all visa types be processed under express service?
Most single-entry tourist visas—like 7 days Dubai visa and 30 days Dubai visa—qualify for urgent delivery. However, longer validity visas or multiple-entry permits may take more time and may not be eligible for the rush option.